20 hours ago
- Politics
- Irish Independent
Mike Cubbard elected as Mayor of Galway City for a third time
Engaging with the youth of Galway city and water safety are among the top priorities for Cllr Cubbard, now in his third term as mayor.
Cllr Cubbard faced hardship towards the end of his last mayoral term (2019-2021) due to Covid-19 but has promised to rise to the challenge once again highlighting the importance of working together to improve the communities around the city.
He said: 'Disagreement and debate are a part of political life… it is our duty to safeguard this chamber. We still have communities who are disengaged from this council.'
Focusing on the importance of engaging with young people so that their voices may be heard in the council as 'respected civic leaders of tomorrow.'
As Cllr Cubbard and former Mayor Peter Keane switch seats to establish the new election, Cllr Keane said: 'All I know is that there will be some plotting in your kitchen.'
'You are going to have a great year because of your great grounding, great character.'
Cllr Peter Keane stepped away from the mayoral position with a 'deep sense of gratitude and a full heart' saying: 'It is a profound privilege to serve the people of Galway.
'Nothing short of humbling to represent this city, and it's people' calling his fellow councillors 'genuinely decent' with the 'deepest respect' for each of his colleagues.
'Handing over the position, I will so do with a sense of gratitude, passion, and accomplishment.'
Cllr Niall McNelis spoke on behalf of Cllr Keane saying that he 'set the bar high' for the years to come with his 'support for the arts, disability, and business community' representing true ambassadorship to the city. Cllr Keane was admonished for his use of the Irish language throughout his term, as well as the French language when Galway welcomed delegates from Lorient, France in May 2025.
In his reflection, Cllr Keane expresses disappointment over the lack of progress on Galway's Ring Road 'despite full funding' and support.
Councillors shared encouraging messages of Cllr Keane's professionalism and pride.
Also elected, as Deputy Mayor, was FF Cllr Alan Cheevers succeeding Cllr Níall McNelis.
